The concept of living as stewards of the mystery is deeply rooted in the New Testament, where the Apostle Paul frequently speaks of the "mystery" of the Gospel and the responsibility of believers to steward this divine revelation. This entry explores the biblical foundation and implications of this stewardship.

Biblical Foundation

The term "mystery" in the New Testament context refers to truths that were once hidden but have now been revealed through Christ. Paul writes in Ephesians 3:9, "and to illuminate for everyone the stewardship of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things." Here, the mystery pertains to the inclusion of the Gentiles in the promises of God, a revelation that was not fully understood in previous generations.

In 1 Corinthians 4:1, Paul further emphasizes the role of believers as stewards: "So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God." This stewardship involves a responsibility to faithfully manage and disseminate the truths of the Gospel.

The Role of Stewards

Stewardship in the biblical sense involves managing something that belongs to someone else. In the case of the mystery of the Gospel, believers are entrusted with the message of salvation and the truths of God's kingdom. This stewardship is not merely about preserving these truths but actively sharing and living them out.

Paul's own life serves as a model for this stewardship. In Colossians 1:25-27, he describes his ministry: "I became its servant by the commission God gave me to fully proclaim to you the word of God, the mystery that was hidden for ages and generations but is now revealed to His saints. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory."

Implications for Believers

Living as stewards of the mystery requires a deep commitment to understanding and proclaiming the Gospel. It involves a life of integrity, as stewards are called to be faithful and trustworthy. In 1 Corinthians 4:2, Paul states, "Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful."

This stewardship also demands a readiness to suffer for the sake of the Gospel. Paul often speaks of his own sufferings as part of his stewardship, as seen in Colossians 1:24, where he writes, "Now I rejoice in my sufferings for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of His body, which is the church."

The Mystery and the Church

The church plays a central role in the stewardship of the mystery. Ephesians 3:10-11 reveals that "His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to the eternal purpose that He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord." The church is the vessel through which God's wisdom and the mystery of the Gospel are displayed to the world.

Practical Stewardship

Practically, living as stewards of the mystery involves several key actions:

1. Proclamation: Sharing the Gospel with others, both in word and deed, is a primary responsibility. This includes evangelism, teaching, and discipleship.

2. Prayer: Seeking God's guidance and strength to faithfully steward the mystery is essential. Paul often prayed for boldness and clarity in proclaiming the Gospel (Ephesians 6:19-20).

3. Unity: As the mystery includes the unification of Jews and Gentiles, believers are called to live in unity, reflecting the reconciliatory power of the Gospel.

4. Holiness: Living a life that reflects the holiness of God is crucial, as it validates the message of the Gospel and demonstrates its transformative power.

In summary, living as stewards of the mystery is a profound calling that encompasses understanding, proclaiming, and living out the truths of the Gospel. It is a responsibility that requires faithfulness, courage, and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit.